Tuineje

Overview

Although the town of Tuineje has the official seat of power within its municipality, the small and bucolic hamlet leads a charmingly relaxed existence. Untouched by the tourism of nearby towns such as Gran Tarajal, which remain to be the region’s main source of economy, Tuineje still manages to impress. With its glorious 18th century church, the town boasts beautiful beaches, and surrounding countryside, dotted with casas rurales: charming rural farmhouses.

History

The most prominent and enthralling chapter in the township’s history came from the 1740 Battle of Tamasite. Facing imminent attack from British invaders, the municipality’s forces rallied together and courageously defeated their munitions-heavy opponents. Still a source of local pride, a lively re-enactment of the battle takes place every October during the Fiesta de San Miguel.

Culture

Like several of the small settlements in its contiguous hinterland, Tuineje remains in something of a time-warp compared to the high-rise apartments and hotels in other more popular resorts. Instantly rustic, the town’s pace of life ambles along pastorally- it is common to see local farmers leading herds of goats along the side of its peripheral roads.

Economy

Whilst a sizeable chunk of the region’s economy derives from the tourism of burgeoning honey-pots such as Gran Tarajal, smaller inland towns such as Tuineje and the neighbouring Tiscamanita, remain agricultural areas. The fertile plains surrounding the town have been conducive to the cultivation of tomatoes and potatoes for centuries, whilst livestock, goats in particular, remain a profitable commodity.

How to get there

By Bus:
Tiadhe Bus number 1 connects Puerto del Rosario with Tuineje, running throughout the day from 06:30-22:30. The journey costs €3.
Tiadhe Bus number 16 (4 times daily between 09:30-19:30) runs from Puerto del Rosario to Gran Tarajal, stopping at Tuineje en route. 
Tiadhe Buses number 9 and 11 also run one service a day from Pájara (06:30) and La Lajita (08:00am) respectively. Both journeys cost €3.15.

By Bus:
If driving from Puerto del Rosario, take the FV-20 motorway which goes directly to Tuineje. If journeying from the south of the island (such as Morro Jable), take the FV-2 before turning onto the FV-20.

Sights

From ancient churches to windmill centres, there is plenty to see during your visit to Tuineje.

Iglesia de San Miguel Arcángel church

Completed in 1790, this resplendent double-naved church contains a startling rococo altar adorned with a sculpture of its forebear San Miguel. Look out for the two images, situated on the lower altar, that depict the region’s famed victory over English invaders in the historic battle of Tamasite in 1740.

Address: Plaza de San Miguel s/n, 35628 Tuineje, Fuerteventura island.

Windmill Interpretation Centre

Located in the nearby hamlet of Tiscamanita, this restoration project has a wealth of information on windmills, of which there are many, due to the island's incoming trade winds. As well as information leaflets in English, there are also exhibits which tell the history of milling. If it’s all a little too much, you can always step outside with a free sample of gofio and enjoy the centre's premises, which contain a lovely pomegranate tree.

Address: Calle de la Cruz, Tiscamanita, Tuineje 35638, Fuerteventura island.
Telephone: +34 928 851 400
Opening hours: 09:30am-17:00 Tuesday-Saturday. Closed Sunday and Monday.

Casa Rural Tamasite Amanay (rural house)

If you’re looking for a real taste of Hispanic authenticity, this rural farmhouse is highly recommended. Located on the outskirts of the town, the house, which is divided into four separate living areas, was built over 200 years ago and still contains its original wooden ceilings. Outside, there is a beautiful courtyard and eating area where you can gorge yourself in the majestic presence of the on-looking Tamasite mountains.

Address: Tamasite 9, Tuineje 35682, Fuerteventura island.
Telephone: +34 902 362 502

Beaches

There are no beaches in Tuineje. The closest beach is a short car or bus ride away in Gran Tarajal.

Festivals

Two of the more popular festivals in Tuineje are:

Fiesta de San Miguel

Also celebrated in Gran Tarajal and Tarajalejo, this shindig, which takes place in October, includes a procession to celebrate the pilgrimage of San Miguel, and also a jovial re-enactment of the Battle of Tamasite.

Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de la Salud

This festival commemorates the town’s patron saint, the Holy Virgen de la Salud. It is held on the third Sunday of June.